Duncan-Williams demands retraction, apology over defamatory publication

Renowned Christian leader, His Eminence Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, has issued a stern demand for a retraction and unqualified apology following the publication of an allegedly defamatory story concerning him on the website www.ghanacelebrity.com.

The publication, dated October 6, 2024, is said to have falsely claimed that Archbishop Duncan-Williams was involved in a conversation with his son about Ghana’s Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and his presidential ambitions.

In a letter sent by the legal representatives of Archbishop Duncan-Williams, the clergyman vehemently denies the content of the article, which allegedly insinuates that he made divisive remarks targeting Dr. Bawumia based on religious grounds. The Archbishop, who is the Founder and General Overseer of Nicholas Duncan Williams Ministries and Action Chapel International, is widely regarded as a highly respected religious leader both in Ghana and internationally.

The legal letter points out that the publication was widely circulated on social media platforms including Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and X (formerly known as Twitter). According to the letter, neither the Archbishop nor his son made the statements attributed to them, and the entire publication is described as “totally contrived and false.”

“Our client’s attention has been drawn to a publication on your website with the headline ‘Duncan Williams Son Exposes Him By Revealing A Secret Conversation He Had With Pastors Concerning Dr Bawumia His Presidential Ambition,’ which is entirely fabricated,” the letter reads.

Archbishop Duncan-Williams’ legal team further emphasized that the publication is defamatory, malicious, and intended to tarnish his reputation. They argue that the story portrays the Archbishop as a divisive figure who promotes religious intolerance, an allegation they firmly deny.

The letter demands that the website issue an unreserved retraction and publish an apology within 48 hours of receiving the letter. The apology must be published in three consecutive posts on the same website. Should the website fail to comply, Archbishop Duncan-Williams’ lawyers have been instructed to pursue legal action, including seeking damages for defamation and legal costs.

This development is likely to attract significant attention in Ghana, where Archbishop Duncan-Williams is a prominent figure both in religious circles and beyond. The letter concludes with a firm warning: “Do not underestimate our resolve to vindicate the reputation and integrity of our client.”